OTAHKIAN RUNNERS TIE FOR FIRST AT VANDERBILT

NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- Southeast Missouri State University's women's cross country team tied host Vanderbilt Saturday for the Commodore Classic title.

The Otahkians' 48 points equaled Vanderbilt. Belmont, which placed third, was well behind with 120 points.

Southeast's men, competing with a full squad for the first time this season, placed 11th in a field of 15 teams.

East Tennessee State's Catherine Berry won the women's race in 17:55. Otahkian Janelle Quigley placed second in 18:36.

Southeast's Tammy Wenkel finished fourth (19:02) and Leslie McNamara came in fifth a second later. Freshman Amy Arteme, a Kelly High product, took 13th (19:43) and Celeste Ramsey, from Perryville, placed 26th (20:25).

"I thought our women really ran well against a strong field," said Souteast coach Joey Haines. "Our women are having an excellent season so far."

The Indians were led by sophomore Ryan Layton, who finished 32nd in 28:23. Tyson Brown, from Perryville, placed 72nd (30:01).